Activity Level: Level 2
Terrain: Hilly
The unpaved surfaces on our Croatia Gravel bike tour are rated as Intermediate. About 90% of the riding is unpaved, primarily featuring smooth dirt with occasional loose gravel and rougher surfaces, including chunky gravel, potholes, and washboard-like areas. This trip primarily rides along the Parenzana trail, a historic small-gauge railway that was converted to a multiuse pedestrian and bike path. The Parenzana trail offers a wide range of gravel surfaces from smooth to chunky sections with larger rocks. Due to the gradual grades on the trail, this is a welcoming trip for those who don’t have experience riding gravel, but are interested in experiencing all different types of gravel surfaces – just be sure to bring your adventurous spirit! With low mileage and elevation gain each day, you can opt to take your time on the more challenging sections and hone your bike handling skills on all types of gravel. The support van will be stationed at key points along the route, as it can't always follow the entire route.
The terrain on this trip includes bumpy farm roads along vineyards, gradual climbs on the car-free Parenzana trail, chunky gravel sections across beautiful bridges and through tunnels. The inland hills of Istria are heavily wooded which offers shade in the hotter months and occasionally opens to provide beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
This tour is best suited for Level 2 Riders with basic experience riding on gravel surfaces or have an adventurous mindset and ready to venture into gravel biking. For those familiar with gravel riding and eager to experience every mile, yet mindful of their physical limits, our electric-assist bike option offers a comfortable and enjoyable solution.
Distance
Daily Average
20 miles | 32 kilometers
Total
98 miles | 158 kilometers
Elevation
Daily Average
1,479 feet | 451 meters
Total
7,394 feet | 2,254 meters
On most Trek Travel trips, we offer non-riding options for riders who want to take the afternoon off, or travel companions who want to spend little or no time in the saddle. Some of these options may need to be scheduled before your trip–please contact one of our Trip Consultants for more information. Expenses and/or related transportation to these activities may not be included in the trip price. Some non-riding options during on our Croatia Gravel bike tour are:
- Take a walking tour of Motovun
- Walk the Skywalk around Motovun for the best views of the surrounding land and sea
- Venture through the Motovun forest on a truffle hunting excursion
- Shop in the many local boutiques in the village of Motovun
- Book a massage at either one of our hotels: Roxanich or Villa San Servolo
- Relax by the pool and enjoy the onsite restaurants
Looking for a break from traffic and the usual routes? Our gravel rides are the perfect escape! While the amount of pavement varies from destination to destination, you can count on minimal traffic once you hit the dirt. And since you'll be off the beaten path, you may encounter fewer services - that's where our guides come in handy. They'll make sure you have everything you need, whether it's a flat tire fix or a local recommendation for the best post-ride treat. And with support from our team available on and off the bike, you'll have everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable ride - even through some of the bumps on the trail.
- Fully guided and supported with two guides and one van minimum
- Daily route options on a pre-loaded Garmin GPS
- Additional guides and vehicles added dependent upon guest count and trip logistics